The former India captain expressed shock on the businessman's arrest.

Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev has expressed concern over the arrest of Sahara Group chief, Subrata Roy and hoped that an “extremely patriotic person” like him will come out of this situation soon.

“In Bangladesh, I came to know though TV channels that Saharasri has surrendered and is in police custody. I have known him as an extremely patriotic man who has done so much for the country. I wish that he comes out of this situation soon,” Kapil said in a letter addressed to the media.

Roy was arrested on Friday by Uttar Pradesh police after non-bailable warrant was issued by the Supreme Court for his failure to appear before it in a case of non-refund of Rs 20,000 crore to investors. He would be produced before the apex court on March 4.

Roy has been kept at Kukrail guest house in Lucknow following court orders.

Kapil, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain, said he has known Roy for a long time and that he tried getting in touch with Sahara Group chairman and his wife after his arrest.

“I have tried hard to call him, but could not get in touch with him nor his wife. In the same context, I contacted a senior worker of Sahara as I was very worried for a possible negative reaction of Sahara Workers, for I know very well that his workers take him as their God,” said Kapil.

Kapil said he wrote the letter, supporting Roy, in the best interest of the country.

“This I share in the best interest of the people of the country.”

First Published on March 2, 2014 11:38 AM ISTLast updated on March 2, 2014 11:39 AM IST